Louse meaning

A louse is a parasitic insect that infests the hair and clothing of humans and animals.


Louse definitions

Word backwards esuol
Part of speech Noun
Syllabic division The syllable separation of the word "louse" is louse (1 syllable).
Plural The plural of the word louse is "lice".
Total letters 5
Vogais (3) o,u,e
Consonants (2) l,s

Head lice are small parasitic insects that live in human hair and feed on blood from the scalp. They are highly contagious and can easily spread from person to person, especially in close contact settings like schools, daycare centers, and camps.

Life Cycle of Louse

Head lice eggs, or nits, are attached to the hair shaft near the scalp and hatch into nymphs within 7-10 days. Nymphs mature into adult lice in about 1-2 weeks and can live on the scalp for up to 30 days, feeding on blood several times a day.

Signs of Infestation

The most common symptom of a lice infestation is itching, caused by an allergic reaction to louse saliva. It is essential to check for lice regularly, especially behind the ears, and at the nape of the neck, where they are most likely to gather.

Treatment and Prevention

Treatment usually involves using over-the-counter or prescription lice-killing shampoos, followed by combing out the nits with a fine-toothed comb. To prevent reinfestation, it is vital to wash and dry all clothing, bedding, and stuffed animals that may have come into contact with lice.

Public Health Concern

Although head lice do not transmit disease, they can cause discomfort and embarrassment. In some cases, secondary bacterial infections can develop from scratching the scalp excessively. It is essential to address lice infestations promptly to prevent their spread.

Head lice infestations can occur at any age but are most common in children ages 3-11. It is crucial to educate children about the importance of not sharing hats, combs, or brushes to reduce the risk of lice transmission.

Overall, while head lice infestations can be challenging to manage, they are treatable with proper care and attention to hygiene. By taking proactive steps to prevent lice infestations, individuals can minimize the risk of outbreaks and maintain optimal scalp health.


Louse Examples

  1. The pet groomer found a louse in the dog's fur.
  2. She felt embarrassed when her daughter had head lice at school.
  3. The farmer's chickens were infested with poultry lice.
  4. He learned about the life cycle of a louse in biology class.
  5. The doctor recommended a lice shampoo to get rid of the parasites.
  6. The homeless man was scratching his head due to a louse infestation.
  7. The school nurse checked each student for head lice.
  8. She sprayed the mattress with lice spray to kill any remaining bugs.
  9. The pharmacist recommended a lice comb to remove nits from the hair.
  10. The zoo veterinarian treated the monkeys for mange mites and lice.


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  • Updated 10/05/2024 - 16:26:48